Grand Discovery of Portugal: From Lisbon to the Douro Valley

Overview

Welcome to a curated 10-day private journey through Portugal, meticulously crafted to showcase the country's most iconic landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant culinary traditions. From the historic quarters and seaside palaces of Lisbon and Sintra to the medieval charms of central Portugal, the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, and the timeless beauty of Porto, your private driver/guide will ensure a seamless and unforgettable exploration at a relaxed, comfortable pace.

Highlights

• Warm airport meet and greet with direct private Mercedes-Benz transfer to your hotel
• Scenic orientation drive along the grand boulevards and waterfront of Lisbon
• Breathtaking city panoramas from the summit of Eduardo VII Park
• Relaxed late afternoon check-in and free time for dinner on your own
• Admire the intricate Manueline stonework of the Jeronimos Monastery
• Private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town of Lisbon (1 hour)
• Enjoy a scenic stop by the iconic Belem Tower along the Tagus riverbank
• Delight in warm pasteis de nata at the legendary Pasteis de Belem bakery
• Wander the labyrinthine cobbled alleys and colorful houses of historic Alfama
• Marvel at the vibrant colors and eclectic architecture of Pena Palace and its parklands

Day by day

1. Day 1 — Arrival in Lisbon & Riverside Orientation
   Your private driver/guide warmly welcomes you at Lisbon Airport for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a gentle panoramic introduction along the Tagus riverfront and elegant avenues before an evening at leisure to unwind and dine on your own.
2. Day 2 — Lisbon Historic Quarters & Belem Heritage
   Spend a captivating morning exploring the maritime legacy of the historic Belem district, followed by an afternoon walking the atmospheric winding alleys of Lisbon's oldest neighborhoods. Sample the world-famous original custard tarts and absorb the vibrant energy of the capital's historic core. Part of the day is spent on a private tuk tuk experience through the Old Town, weaving through the narrow lanes of Alfama and Mouraria for about an hour.
3. Day 3 — Sintra & Cascais Coastal Splendour
   Journey into the romantic Serra de Sintra to discover its fairy-tale mountain setting and colorful royal estate before following the Atlantic shoreline. Experience the wild beauty of continental Europe's westernmost point and the refined seaside promenade of Cascais.
4. Day 4 — Evora Heritage Plains
   Discover ancient monuments, peaceful whitewashed streets, and the region's celebrated agricultural traditions.
5. Day 5 — Northbound Journey via Obidos & Nazare
   Travel northbound toward central Portugal, pausing first at the storybook walled village of Obidos and continuing to the coastal bluffs of Nazare. Experience medieval heritage, local traditions, and sweeping ocean panoramas before concluding the journey in the historic university city of Coimbra.
6. Day 6 — Coimbra Academia & Journey to the Douro Valley
   Discover the historic academic quarter of Coimbra before venturing inland into the world-renowned Douro Valley wine region. Arrive amidst terraced hillside a vineyard and majestic river bends, settling into the tranquil heart of the valley. Today belongs to the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards drop down to the river. In the morning you step aboard a private 1-hour boat trip on the Douro, seeing the valley from the water. Back on land, the drive follows the panoramic roads above Pinhao and Peso da Regua, stopping at the best viewpoints. In the afternoon a family run quinta welcomes you for a Douro wine tasting, with time to walk the vines before the day closes.
7. Day 7 — Hidden Viewpoints and Quintas of the Douro Valley
   A second day in the Douro Valley, away from the river and deeper into the villages and estates of the region. The morning follows the high panoramic roads towards Sao Joao da Pesqueira and Casal de Loivos, with time in Lamego or one of the small granite villages. In the afternoon a different family quinta welcomes you for a tasting of their own wines and Ports alongside local bread, cheese and olive oil.
8. Day 8 — Scenic Transfer to Porto via Amarante
   Depart the terraced valley and travel westward to Porto, pausing en route in the historic mountain town of Amarante along the Tamega River. Upon arriving in Porto, check in and enjoy a gentle orientation along the timeless Ribeira waterfront.
9. Day 9 — Porto Highlights & Riverside Splendour
   Immerse yourself in the architectural marvels, historic neighborhoods, and maritime character of Porto. Discover grand monuments adorned with intricate blue-and-white tiles and enjoy sweeping views from the city's highest vantage points.
10. Day 10 — Departure from Porto
    Enjoy a relaxed morning and breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private driver for your dedicated transfer to Porto Airport. Reflect on an unforgettable 10-day voyage across Portugal as you connect with your flight home.

What is included

• Private English-speaking driver-guide
• Black Mercedes-Benz vehicle (E-Class, V-Class, or Sprinter based on group size)
• All ground transport between cities and on tour days
• Door-to-door pickups and drop-offs at hotels and airports
• Bottled water and Wi-Fi in the vehicle
• Personalized planning by Portugal Magik travel designers

Not included

• Hotel accommodation (we recommend properties on request)
• Flights to and from Portugal
• Meals and drinks (suggestions provided by your driver)
• Museum and monument entrance fees
• Travel insurance

Who this trip suits

Travellers who prefer a private, fully planned Portugal journey with a driver-guide handling every transfer.

Frequently asked questions